Husband and wife duo, Michael and Mary Porter, have been unveiled as megadonors who are putting in key power moves going forward.
Power Couple Wants the GOP to Live On
The couple is retired but has been some of the biggest donors to Texas Republicans. They have made two $1 million contribution donations to Governor Greg Abbott.
The power couple is now increasing their contributions by launching a new political action committee due to the beginning of the 2022 election cycle.
The group is called Texans for Responsible Government and has been giving an initial $1 million in funds from Michael Porter. This was found out through an announcement that was shared with The Texas Tribune.
“TRG PAC anticipates supporting candidates and officeholders in 2022 that are committed to preserving Texas’ prosperity, including limited government, expanding access to mental health care services, supporting veterans, promoting free enterprise and enhancing education,” the announcement said.
The Porters Put Their Money Where Their Mouths Are
The Texas Tribune reports:
The group represents a significant step for the publicity-shy Porters, who own Cross Creek Ranch in Doss, a tiny town outside Fredericksburg. The PAC will serve to “better organize, consolidate and manage” the couple’s political activities, according to the announcement. Its board consists of Michael Porter, former Texas Insurance Commissioner Kent Sullivan and Austin lobbyist Chris Britton.
The PAC’s first filing with the Texas Ethics Commission is due Jan. 15.
The Porters first drew political attention in 2017 when they cut their first $1 million check to Abbott’s campaign — and then again when they gave him another $1 million in 2019. Since 2017, though, they have also given to other statewide officials, and they were prolific last cycle in Republicans’ successful fight to hold their majority in the state House. In addition to giving to individual candidates, Michael Porter donated $1 million to the Republican State Leadership Committee, the top national group that helped keep the Texas House red.
Sometimes Big Moves Take Big Money
Some Republicans know that if big power moves are not made now, the future of conservative America will be no more.